News Summary
Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine have announced over $48 million in federal funding for airport improvements across Virginia. The allocation will benefit 18 airports, focusing on upgrading aging facilities and enhancing safety standards. Significant projects include runway rehabilitation and new construction at various airports, with special attention to those in rural areas. The investment aims to stimulate economic growth and improve aviation services essential for local communities.
Richmond, Virginia — Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine have announced the allocation of over $48 million in federal funding aimed at enhancing airport infrastructure throughout Virginia. This substantial funding will benefit 18 airports across the Commonwealth, playing a critical role in upgrading aging facilities and improving safety standards.
Approximately $10 million will be directed specifically to five airports in the Hampton Roads region. The funding is part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Infrastructure Grants and the Airport Improvement Plan, which are linked to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress. This recent round of funding comes on the heels of previous allocations designed to bolster the state’s airport infrastructure.
Norfolk International Airport is currently undergoing a major transformation that is estimated to cost $1 billion, supported significantly by federal funds. The recent allocation will assist with various construction projects including runway rehabilitation, the construction of new hangars, improved lighting, and upgrades to taxiways. The funding is being distributed to support key improvements at airports across Virginia, enhancing not only safety but also operational capacity.
Specific Funding Allocations
The funding will support a variety of specific projects at different airports. Notable allocations include:
- $7.2 million for new lighting and a taxiway shift at Winchester Regional Airport.
- $6.8 million for reconstructing taxiways at Washington Dulles International Airport.
- $5.2 million for runway rehabilitation at Virginia Highlands Airport.
- $4.9 million for runway rehabilitation at Leesburg Executive Airport.
- $4.7 million for improving the general aviation apron at Newport News-Williamsburg Airport.
In addition to these projects, funds will also facilitate runway extensions at Richmond Executive/Chesterfield County Airport and Twin County Airport, the construction of new hangars at multiple facilities, and various rehabilitation efforts at smaller regional airports.
Economic Impact of Virginia’s Airports
The airport system in Virginia supports over 146,000 jobs and generates over $23 billion in economic activity annually, making it a vital component of the state’s economy. The funding announcement reflects ongoing efforts to improve aviation infrastructure, particularly in light of the needs identified in rural areas where facilities often require significant upgrades to meet safety standards and accommodate future growth.
Recent funding allocations also include over $21 million for improvements at 10 airports announced last month and nearly $57 million earmarked for revitalization efforts disclosed in October. Warner and Kaine have consistently emphasized the necessity for ongoing investments in infrastructure and the importance of reauthorizing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The Role of Regional Airports
Both senators recognized that smaller regional airports provide essential services such as medevac flights, business travel, and support for military operations. As such, investing in rural airport infrastructure is crucial for supporting local economies. The anticipated improvements through the newly allocated funds are expected to bolster tourism, stimulate business development, and enhance federal contracts in military and defense sectors within Virginia.
The announcement of this funding is a strong step forward in addressing the shortcomings in infrastructure and underscores the commitment to enhancing air travel facilities across Virginia, ensuring they can sustainably support future growth and regional needs.
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WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
